She was in a very unenviable state of mind.

She was not yet quite easy on the subject of the murder at Lone Castle.

For although her husband and herself might have no connection with the crime, still they had undoubtedly been lurking secretly about the house on the very night of its perpetration, and therefore might get into great trouble.

And, besides, she was frightened at having secreted the costly watch and chain, snuff-box, and other jewels, from her Scott, and then told him a falsehood about them.

What if he should find her out in her dishonesty and duplicity?
She did not dream of giving up her stolen property.